The Proactive Cyclist

Living in a country with a definite reactionary culture can be challenging…..especially when you’re a proactive type person.

Yeah, I’m not perfect but I definitely lean towards the approach of doing things now to avoid having issues in the future. It’s just how I’m wired and probably has something to do with being raised by Parents who are that way as well.

I so much more prefer doing what I can to avoid a problem, than having to put out a fire or react to an emergency situation. That’s just me.

But, if you don’t already know this about Caribbean culture….this is a place where most things don’t get done until it’s an absolute necessity. Not that it’s a bad way to be exactly, it’s just something not easy for someone like me to adjust to.

Being the proactive guy I am might not save me in my day to day life here in Grenada, but I do feel it works well for the cycling conditions on this island.

This is something so impossible to describe with words, but let me give it a shot. First of all, this is one place where you absolutely have to be aware of what’s around you……in all directions. You also have to be prepared for anything….and I mean, ANYTHING.

Here’s one example. The roads are super narrow and there are cars parked at the side of the road. So as I’m cycling towards one of these parked vehicles, I quickly have to look up ahead and if no oncoming traffic is there….I take to the middle of the road. Why, you ask? Well, if I don’t than any cars behind me will not even hesitate to pass….and in doing so block me from going forward, due to the parked car in my way. For me, it’s called cycling……not stopping. So I do what I can to stay one step ahead.

With potholes, wandering goats (and people), and so much more to deal with…..it’s a necessity to bring along your “Get Out of Jail Free Card” on each and every ride. Even the most proactive cyclist gets caught up in a situation here from time to time.

Share this:

13 Responses to “ The Proactive Cyclist ”

For me and mountain biking its all about planning ahead. Being confident that I have all the gear that I may need in case of a mechanical.

Riding off-road I have the luxury of not having to worry much about traffic, but mechanicals and flats especially are far more common. I always keep my saddle bag on my bike filled with 4 items that are absolutely crucial in case of a problem. A spare tube, a multi-tool, a CO2 cartridge and adapter.

And typically I’ll keep 5 or 10 bucks with me as well in case I need to bribe somebody to give me a lift or pick up some food mid-ride.

Thanks Shawn. Yeah, I wish there were more trails to ride here. If so, I just might become a real mountain biker. I’d love to take you out riding here so you can experience the insanity with me. Those Texas trails will feel even more tranquil after you do it.

I’m always watching and listening. Being in a big city I need to anticipate all moves ahead of me and be ready for those behind. This includes the bike trails as well, as many use it as a walking/rollerblading path. For those that drive, do you remember the instructor saying ‘watch 2 cars ahead’? that’s the approach I use regardless of where I’m riding. I find it’s so second nature now that I rarely have to stop because I’ve anticipated and corrected for what is happening around me.

Good idea….I like the two cars ahead approach. I think here I need the 4 cars ahead approach….seriously. Even though traffic moves slower here, the uncertainty of what people are going to do combined with the narrow roads and wild drivers makes it totally necessary to be completely proactive.

My question is other than juice, can you suggest modifications in lieu of table sugar for energy and hydration.

Answer:

Both raw/organic honey or agave can work great in the homebrew (substitute in the same quantities for the sugar, or to taste), but you do have to shake well in order to make sure they don’t settle out. Have you tried either of these? Also, make sure to use at least the minimum amount of salt recommended in the homebrew as the temps rise, you need the sodium replacement if you’re sweating.